Strahan is a fantastic jumping point for exploring the west of Tasmania. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had, an abundance of fresh food, and a dark-yet-fascinating history. Surrounded by national parks and wildlife refuges, Strahan is the perfect destination for the naturalist and those seeking a relaxing escape from the daily stress of modern life.

Region

This small village of farmers and fishermen is surrounded by 19 national parks and regional reserves. Image thanks to: Paul Fleming

Things To Do and See

Strahan is rapidly becoming commonplace on many a bucket list for a remote, adventurous getaway. Gordon River Cruises will provide a seemingly endless day of breathcatching views, complete with a tour through the notorious prison on Sarah Island. Explore the dunes in an ATV or take a evening cruise to Bonnet Island for a viewing of the Fairy Penguins. Strahan is a gem of a seaside community thriving with outdoor activities.

Food and Drink

The seafood in Strahan defines “fresh.” Fresh, too, are the paddock-to-plate fruits and vegetables coming straight from the rich Tasmanian soil. The region produces world-class Pinot Noirs and sparkling wines, which thrive in the cool Antarctic night breezes. If you prefer a little more bite in your spirits, gin and whisky are crafted locally, too. Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett.

Adventure and Wilderness

Tasmania is home to some of the most unusual and exotic wildlife on Earth. Its roster of rarities includes 12 bird species found nowhere else, the ever-popular platypus, as well as unique creatures such as Quolls, Pademelons and Echidnas. We should also mention here the infamous Tasmanian Devil!

Adventure seekers will enjoy white-water rafting along the waterfalls and rainforest of the King River. Just to the south, Franklin River boasts class six rapids. The Henty Dunes offer an amazing experience for those seeking the thrill of ATV duneing and sand surfing.

For a relaxing day settle in on a yacht journey along the Gordon River. Alternatively, hire a bike and explore Strahan or take a walk along the Esplanade, stroll to People’s Park to catch the trailhead to Hogarth Falls, a 40-minute return journey. And there’s always golf--hit a quick nine at the Strahan Golf Club. Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Masaaki Aihara.

Shopping

Strahan is different from its larger counterparts in so many ways. This small, isolated seaside village has its share of souvenir shops, galleries, ice cream and sweeteries. Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett.

Local Tips

Consider visiting for the bi-annual “Unconformity Festival” for 3 days in October. A past favorite of the festival included a Traditional Smoking ceremony with an Aboriginal elder, and the Ya Pulinginya welcome dance. There is also storytelling, guided tours, drum circles and an after-hours club for the more traditionalist.

Targa Tasmania, a world-class international motor sport, passes through town in mid-April. It’s the longest tarmac rally in Australia. The race breaks overnight here on the second-to-last leg of this six-legged race.

For one night, and one night only in May, the Mountainfilm Festival at Cradle Mountain is the centre of attention. MovieMaker magazine thinks it’s one of the “Coolest Film Festivals in the World.”

Then there’s Tas Whisky Week in August – a full 7 days where the distillery doors are open to the public. Restaurants, bars, barns, and stables are all open for spirit tasting. Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Nick Osborne